Improving the implementation of water and resource recovery in Canada

Globally there is a need to rethink water use and wastewater disposal. One view is to consider wastewater as a resource via treatment for fit-for-purpose water and resource recovery (WRR). To understand what has worked in Canada according to those directly involved in WRR, we used interviews with individuals involved in various WRR projects. Seventeen semi-structured interviews were completed with participants from regions across Canada. Three main findings pertaining to the question ‘what is needed for WRR project implementation?’ emerged from the interviews: government and institutional support; community engagement, education, and acceptance; and comprehensive planning. Based on the interview findings, WRR projects require foundational guidance, something that is currently lacking in the Canadian context. To improve WRR implementation and success in Canada, guidance on community engagement, technology, costs, and impact assessments should be built into a policy for WRR. HIGHLIGHTS Current WRR projects in Canada are managed independently, resulting in mixed experiences and outcomes.; Implementer experiences with the WRR implementation process vary regionally.; Community engagement is necessary for WRR implementation, and transparent communication is imperative for building community trust.; WRR in Canada should be supported by governments through proper guidance and technical support.